The federal government has now formally set 16 years as the minimum age requirement for entry into tertiary institutions in Nigeria. This policy was announced during the ongoing Policy Meeting of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) in Abuja. Minister of Education Dr. Tunji Alausa stressed that any admissions processed outside the Central Admission Processing System (CAPS) will be considered illegal, warning that those involved will face legal consequences.
He reaffirmed that the age limit of 16 is final and non-negotiable.
Dr. Alausa also cautioned that institutional leaders implicated in admission fraud will be held legally responsible.
This decision is part of the government’s broader effort to streamline admission procedures, reduce irregularities, and promote transparency and equity in the admissions process for universities, polytechnics, and colleges of education nationwide.